I recently entered two quilts in the local quilt show in Henderson, Nevada. I wasn’t sure how I would do because it was a big show with lots of amazing entries. Why did I torture myself and enter a show to be judged by others? I want to share my quilts and inspire others. I also want to learn how I can improve. Ribbons are the icing on the cake and I don’t enter a show just to get a ribbon. But, I’m going to be completely honest with you all…I like to win. Deep down inside, I want to win. I can’t help it, I’m super competitive. I blame my husband, his competitiveness has rubbed off on me.
I entered my Big Star and Me and My Shadow. I was completely shocked that Big Star won a first place ribbon in the modern category and Me and My Shadow won Judge’s Choice. Seriously. I was really shocked. People don’t believe me when I say that but it’s true. The competition here is fierce.
Although I won ribbons, I also learned I have room for improvement (duh, I’m human and not perfect so this wasn’t a big surprise) The judge commented that I need to be better at back tracking my feathers on my Big Star. This wasn’t a shock. I knew I had missed in several places. I was hoping she wouldn’t notice. She also commented on my binding which I know needs improvement.
Big Star
The comments on Me and My Shadow were mostly positive. She did tell me I could have possibly done better had I entered the quilt in a different category. Hmmm…who knew. Entering the wrong category can really impact whether you win a ribbon. I did struggle with the category for Me and My Shadow and I ended up making the wrong choice. My advice for others would be to ask for advice from the show chair if you are in doubt.
Me and My Shadow
The most important thing to remember about entering shows is, it’s all relative. For real. Your quilt’s ability to win is based on all the other quilts entered. If they aren’t so good, you have a better chance. But if they are all exquisite, then the competition is much higher. You just really never know. My advice is to take a chance on yourself, put your work out there. You may win, you may not. But you’ll never know unless you try.
I’m going to practice what I’m preaching and I’m entering several national shows this year. I did enter MQX last year and I didn’t win. I was pretty sure that show was above my skill level but I entered anyway. I will continue to push myself to be the best I can be.
Happy Quilting!
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